Where Comfort Food Meets Coastal Charm
South Carolina is one of those states that surprises you. From the cobblestone streets of Charleston to the laid-back beaches of Hilton Head, it blends Southern hospitality with rich history and a serious love for food. If you've ever sat on a porch sipping sweet tea and watching the Spanish moss sway in the breeze, you know the vibe I'm talking about.
But beyond the postcard views, South Carolina has a food culture that's deeply rooted in tradition - and seriously worth exploring. This state doesn't just serve Southern food. It lives it.
A Few Things You Might Not Know About South Carolina
- Barbecue here means pork. Period. And not just any pork - we're talking about whole hog, slow-roasted and mopped with a tangy mustard-based sauce you'll only find in the Midlands of South Carolina. This is the birthplace of "Carolina Gold," and no, we're not talking about the rice (yet).
- It's home to the only tea plantation in North America. The Charleston Tea Garden, on Wadmalaw Island, is the real deal. They grow, harvest, and process their own black tea, and tours are free if you're ever in the area.
- Gullah-Geechee culture runs deep. Along the coast, the Gullah people - descendants of West Africans - have preserved their language, traditions, and culinary heritage for generations. Their food, especially rice-based dishes, is a cornerstone of South Carolina's identity.
South Carolina Staples You'll Want to Try
1. Shrimp and Grits
It's hard to talk about Lowcountry cuisine without mentioning this classic. Creamy, buttery grits topped with shrimp sautéed in bacon fat, garlic, and spices - every bite feels like a hug. It started as a fisherman's breakfast and turned into one of the South's most celebrated dishes.
2. Frogmore Stew (Lowcountry Boil)
Don't worry - there are no frogs involved. Just a big ol' pot of shrimp, corn, smoked sausage, and potatoes boiled with Old Bay and served newspaper-style on a picnic table. It's messy, fun, and perfect for warm nights.
3. Collard Greens
Bitter greens simmered low and slow with smoked meat until they're tender and packed with flavor. Every family does them a little differently, but they're always on the table during holidays and Sunday dinners. If you're curious about how I make mine, check out my quick pressure cooker collard greens recipe here. Spoiler: I go heavy on the vinegar and let them cook down until they're melt-in-your-mouth soft.
4. Carolina Gold Rice
This heirloom grain is making a comeback in the Charleston area, and it's worth seeking out. It has a rich, nutty flavor and plays a starring role in Gullah-Geechee dishes like Hoppin' John (a mix of rice, black-eyed peas, and pork).
5. Pimento Cheese
Known as the "caviar of the South," this cheesy spread is made with sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos. Scoop it onto crackers, melt it on a burger, or eat it with a spoon - no judgment here.
Famous Bites: Where to Eat in South Carolina
Husk
Chef Sean Brock's award-winning restaurant celebrates Southern ingredients and heritage cooking in a refined but approachable way. Think upscale southern dishes - all served in a beautifully restored historic home.
Rodney Scott's BBQ
Rodney Scott is a James Beard Award-winning pitmaster who's been cooking whole hog since he was a kid. His vinegar sauce is legendary, and his ribs and pulled pork are worth the wait in line.
Bowens Island Restaurant
This no-frills seafood shack on the marsh is famous for its oysters, fried shrimp, and killer sunsets. It's cash-only, covered in graffiti, and one of the most iconic places to eat in the state.
Whether you're cooking in your RV kitchen or planning your next Southern road trip, South Carolina offers a little something for everyone - history, scenery, and a whole lot of flavor. Try a Lowcountry boil on your next beach stop, or simmer a pot of collard greens for Sunday dinner. Even better? Pick up some Carolina Gold rice and see how it transforms a simple meal into something memorable.
Next stop on this culinary road trip? Stay tuned!
